Liverpool ready to up charge for midfield ace

Liverpool are plotting a move for highly-rated Porto midfielder Fernando, according to reports from The Express.

The Brazilian is currently one of Europe’s most sought after enforcers, with his current contract set to expire in six months’ time.

As a result, Porto are believed to be open to letting him leave in a cut-price deal, which has alerted the likes of Manchester United and Everton, as well as Napoli.

But Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is hopeful that he can lure the midfielder to Anfield.

The Northern Irishman is believed to have had scouts present for Porto’s weekend game against Benfica with strict instructions to assess the 26-year-old.

Rodgers is desperate to add a central player to his squad in the coming weeks to keep his side in the battle for a top four finish after an impressive opening half of the season.

A number of injuries over the festive period revealed a worrying lack of depth in the club’s squad, which could be a potential problem as the season reaches its climax.

Beyond Steven Gerrard, Lucas, Joe Allen and Jordan Henderson, Liverpool have very little in the way of alternatives, and have been linked with a number of potential signings to strengthen their ranks in recent times.